Diane Sawyer during her last broadcast as anchor of "World News," in New York. Photo: AP

Diane Sawyer signed off from ABC’s “World News” on Wednesday after nearly five years — with gratitude and thanks for her viewers and staff.

Sawyer took a few minutes at the end of the program to speak of the “deep privilege it has been to sit in the anchor chair” once occupied by the late Peter Jennings, and assured viewers that the broadcast was in “strong and steady hands” under new anchor David Muir.

“‘World News’ will continue to be dedicated to what informs you and what makes your life better,” she said.

Sawyer, 68, is moving to a new full-time role at ABC News leading new programming that tackles big issues and interviews while continuing to anchor and produce specials. She first joined the network in 1989.

“I am not slowing down,” she said. “I am already at work on stories that take you into the world around us, the ones we rarely get to see.”

Sawyer leaves “World News” in strong ratings territory. A steady No. 2 to NBC’s “Nightly News,” the program has narrowed the viewership gap during her tenure, in 2014 winning the May sweep in its target 25-54 demo for the first time in six years.

Muir takes over as “World News” anchor and managing editor on Sept. 2.